Calcium phosphate is present in tooth enamel. Its nature is(a) basic(b) acidic(c) neutral(d) amphoteric

Breakdown the Problem

To determine the nature of calcium phosphate in tooth enamel, we need to understand the properties of calcium phosphate and consider its chemical behavior in terms of acidity and basicity.

Relevant Concepts

Calcium phosphate (Ca₃(PO₄)₂) can interact with acids and bases, and its nature can be categorized into four potential options: basic, acidic, neutral, and amphoteric.

1. Basic Nature: A substance is basic if it can accept protons (H⁺ ions).
2. Acidic Nature: A substance is acidic if it can donate protons.
3. Neutral Nature: A neutral substance does not exhibit acidic or basic properties.
4. Amphoteric Nature: An amphoteric substance can act as both an acid and a base.

Analysis and Detail

Calcium phosphate is typically considered to be less soluble in water and does not significantly dissociate into ions to exhibit acidic or basic behavior. However, when it reacts with acids (like phosphoric acid), it can break down, demonstrating basic behavior as it neutralizes acids. In relation to its amphoteric nature, it can also react with strong bases, though this reaction is less common.

Verify and Summarize

Given its behavior, calcium phosphate primarily neutralizes acids rather than demonstrating significant acidic properties, thus supporting the idea that its nature is basic rather than acidic, neutral, or amphoteric.

Final Answer

The nature of calcium phosphate in tooth enamel is (a) basic.